Ms Noirín O'Sullivan:

In terms of providing reassurance, it is very welcome that the Freedom of Information Acts will be extended to An Garda Síochána. In the context of matters that Mr. Ronan Brady raised, and I know it is not specifically about freedom of information but of serving the public interest, it is the right thing to do. I know that Mr. Brady referred to centralisation but it is important to say that not only does the Garda have a centralised press office but also local people to deal with local media. It is a very useful mechanism for connectivity with people. As part of the renewal programme, we have a pillar around communications and renewed communications and a strategic communications plan. I do not like to speak of communications in those terms but let me explain what it means. It means reaching out to people through new mechanisms in media, such as social media and new ways of connecting with people. All of the measures combined contribute to the openness and transparency I spoke about in my opening address.